What is Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)?
AST is an enzyme that supports the conversion of amino acids into energy. It’s produced in the liver, muscles, heart, and kidneys and serves as a key marker for understanding how well your body’s metabolic systems are functioning.
Why does it matter for long-term health and wellbeing?
AST levels provide insight into your body’s energy metabolism and overall cellular balance. By keeping AST within the optimal range, you support efficient nutrient processing, better recovery, and long-term vitality.
What’s an optimal level of AST?
- Reference range: 5–40 U/L
- Optimal range: Below 30 U/L (females), below 35 U/L (males)
What influences AST levels?
Levels can fluctuate due to factors such as nutrition, exercise intensity, alcohol intake, hydration, medications, or metabolic stress. Regular monitoring helps identify patterns linked to lifestyle habits and recovery efficiency.
What does it mean if AST is outside the optimal range?
Values above the optimal range may suggest your body is under increased stress or working harder to process nutrients and energy. Understanding these changes alongside other markers, like ALT, provides a fuller picture of metabolic health and recovery capacity.
How can I support healthy AST levels?
You can help maintain optimal AST levels through balanced nutrition, limiting alcohol intake, regular but moderate physical activity, and adequate rest. Hydration and a nutrient-rich diet also support efficient energy metabolism and recovery.
This information is provided for general health and wellness purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
Reference
- Pathology Tests Explained. Tests – Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST). Retrieved July 2025.
- RCPA (Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia). Aspartate aminotransferase (AST).
- StatPearls. Liver Function Tests.
- Better Health Channel (Victoria). Liver (role, conditions and blood markers).
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